In mastery learning, what must a student achieve before progressing to the next subject?

In mastery learning, the core principle revolves around ensuring that students attain a specific level of competence in a subject before they move on to the next topic or level of learning. This approach emphasizes that mastery is defined as a clear understanding and ability to apply the knowledge or skills in question.

The student must demonstrate this competence through assessments, which might include tests, projects, or other evaluative measures. This ensures that they have not only engaged with the material but have also internalized it to a degree that allows for successful progression. Mastery learning is based on the idea that each student can achieve a high level of understanding if given adequate time and appropriate support, and that cascading the learning process helps with retention and deeper understanding.

Other choices may touch upon aspects of learning but do not capture the fundamental requirement of mastery learning. For example, simply having a willingness to learn, achieving an average score, or obtaining a teacher's approval does not necessarily indicate that a student has attained mastery over the subject matter required to advance.